In a significant public appearance, Princess Catharina-Amalia of the Netherlands unveiled a commemorative plaque at a tulip garden she gifted to Madrid, marking a heartfelt gesture of gratitude to the city that has become her second home. The 21-year-old royal, who is the heir to the Dutch throne, expressed her appreciation for the support she received while studying in Madrid, especially during a challenging time in her life.
During the event held on April 9, 2025, in the historic Plaza de Oriente, Princess Amalia noted, "Madrid is like a second home to me, especially in a time that was difficult in the Netherlands. In this very Dutch way, I want to thank everyone who took care of my safety and well-being in Madrid." This visit was her first official act outside the Netherlands, and it came after a period of heightened security concerns due to threats against her safety from organized crime in her home country.
Standing tall at 5ft 9in, Princess Amalia made a striking impression next to Madrid's mayor, José Luis Martínez-Almeida, who is estimated to be 5ft 3in. The height difference became a topic of amusement on social media, with many users commenting on their contrasting statures during the unveiling ceremony. Princess Amalia wore a stylish red boho-patterned dress, accentuated by knee-high heeled boots, which further emphasized her height.
Amalia's decision to gift a tulip garden to Madrid is deeply symbolic, as tulips are the national flower of the Netherlands and often represent gratitude. The idea for the garden emerged in November 2024, when she announced her plans to thank the city for its warm welcome during her stay. The tulip garden reflects not only her appreciation but also her connection to Spanish culture, as her parents, King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima, share a love for hunting and traditional Spanish customs.
While Princess Amalia's visit was meant to strengthen ties with Spain, it also brought to light a lesser-known aspect of her life: her passion for hunting. Reports from Vanitatis revealed that although she had previously expressed reluctance to use her hunting license, she has indeed been practicing hunting in Spain, where the royal family has connections. This revelation about her hobby, previously kept under wraps, surprised many, particularly since it had been known among a select group of Dutch journalists but never published.
The princess's move to Madrid in 2023 was primarily motivated by security concerns following threats of kidnapping by organized crime gangs in the Netherlands. She initially withdrew from her studies at the University of Amsterdam due to these threats, living under heightened protection at her parents' residence in The Hague. Queen Máxima expressed her sadness about her daughter's situation, stating, "No student life for her, like other students have. I'm very proud of her and how she keeps it all going."
After spending over a year in Madrid, where she found a semblance of freedom away from the royal spotlight, Amalia returned to Amsterdam to continue her studies in politics, psychology, law, and economics. Her time in Spain has not only provided her with a sense of safety but also allowed her to form deep connections with the culture and people.
On the day of the plaque unveiling, Princess Amalia's fashion choices were also a topic of interest. She wore a printed maroon dress from Ba&sh, accessorized with subtle gold earrings, a burgundy leather bag, and Gianvito Rossi knee-high boots, all borrowed from her mother’s wardrobe. This choice not only showcased her evolving style but also her desire to honor her mother's influence as she transitions into her role as a future queen.
Fashion experts have noted that Princess Amalia's style has matured significantly, reflecting her growth from a teenager to a confident young royal. Lisa Talbot, a fashion analyst, commented, "Princess Catharina-Amalia’s evolving style beautifully reflects her transition from teenager to confident young royal. Her choices show she's becoming more comfortable in the spotlight, with a growing awareness of how fashion can communicate strength, elegance, and individuality."
As she continues to navigate her royal duties and personal challenges, Princess Amalia's recent public engagements demonstrate her resilience and commitment to her role. The unveiling of the tulip garden in Madrid stands not just as a token of gratitude but as a symbol of her journey, bridging her Dutch heritage with her experiences in Spain.
Despite the challenges she has faced, including body shaming and security threats, Amalia's recent appearances have been characterized by newfound confidence and poise. Her commitment to maintaining a connection with her studies and her royal responsibilities is evident in her actions and public statements.
In summary, Princess Catharina-Amalia's visit to Madrid and her unveiling of the tulip garden reflect her deep appreciation for the city that has offered her refuge during a tumultuous period. As she steps into her role as a future queen, her journey continues to inspire many, showcasing the strength and grace of a young woman poised to lead.
